Rover starts making tracks after landing on the moon

A new photograph released by China’s space agency shows its lunar rover, Jade Rabbit 2, making tracks on the soft surface of the far side of the moon.

The drive follows the successful landing of the lunar explorer Chang’e 4 on Thursday morning Beijing time (just before 2.30am GMT).

Just 12 hours later, the rover drove off onto the surface of the Earth’s primary satellite.

“It’s a small step for the rover, but one giant leap for the Chinese nation,” Wu Weiren, the chief designer of China’s Lunar Exploration Project, told state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV).

“This giant leap is a decisive move for our exploration of space and the conquering of the universe,” he added.

According to state media, the Jade Rabbit 2 rover has six wheels and is powered for six-wheel drive, so even if wheels fail others will independently continue.

Image:Jade Rabbit 2 has begun to drive across the moon

It can drive at a maximum speed of 200 metres (220 yards) per hour, and climb up slopes of up to 20 degrees and navigate over obstacles 20cm (8″) tall.